CHANDIGARH, APRIL 17 — Punjab Finance, Excise and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Friday flagged off a new fleet of 25 vehicles to enhance the operational reach and enforcement capabilities of the state’s tax authorities. The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Bhagwant Mann government to strengthen field presence and curb tax evasion across the state.
During the event, Cheema stated that the addition of the new Bolero vehicles, procured at an approximate cost of ₹2.21 crore, is a vital step toward improving geographical coverage and operational efficiency. He maintained that these units would be deployed across various districts and mobile enforcement wings to ensure strict compliance with state tax laws.
The Minister noted that the Excise and Taxation Department has demonstrated exceptional performance during the 2025-26 financial year. He affirmed that gross GST collections grew by 11.87%, reaching ₹27,744.05 crore, while net GST revenue saw a 12.52% increase. Additionally, he declared that excise revenue rose by 9.15%, totaling ₹11,736.57 crore compared to the previous fiscal year.
Cheema also reported a significant spike in enforcement outcomes, asserting that penalties imposed by State Intelligence and Preventive Units (SIPUs) increased more than four-fold. He stated that the total penalty rose from ₹321.04 crore in the previous year to ₹1,384.09 crore in FY 2025-26. This improvement, he noted, reflects the department’s uncompromising stance on tax compliance.
He concluded that the new fleet would enable real-time monitoring and swift action against illegal goods movement. Cheema affirmed that the proactive measures are intended to secure the state’s revenue interests and pave the way for sustained economic performance in the coming years.
